Find your tribe

Now that the holidays are behind us, lots of people are back in the old routine again. Well, maybe not without a few changes here and there. Those extra times of self-indulgence can trigger a new interest in positive change, self-improvement, and well-being.

The problem always seems to be how to make the leap from intention to action. We all know the short-lived fate of many a New Year’s Resolution.

Over the years I’ve taken part in a number of programs, retreats and workshops. My newly inspired, uplifted and energized self is convinced that nothing can cool my enthusiasm. I’ll carry all the newly discovered good stuff into my day-to-day life without a hitch.

But the realist in me knows better.

I know that even those most noble goals can evaporate like the morning mist in the space of one upsetting phone call, or hectic morning on the job.

Fortunately I also knows is that there’s strength in number. Swami Kripalvanandaji, the founder of Kripalu Yoga and a very wise man indeed used to say: “Group support is stronger than willpower.” Without the company of like-minds to bolster resolve, a practice can quickly fall into disuse.

Just looking at yoga – my practice of choice and also part of my professional life – there is a need for both the individual and the group experience. In my personal practice, I can let my intuition guide my movements and breath. In the presence of the sangha I am challenged to reach a little further, hold a little longer, branch out, explore. All the while feeling supported by the shared energy of those practicing with me.

Humans like to form groups – to bond with a “tribe”. It’s part of the nature of who we are. And yoga for me isn’t just about asanas and pranayama – it’s a way of living that influences the choices I make. And it helps to be with others who share the path so we can learn from each other, and grow together.

So I simply offer this suggestion to you as a way to improve the chance that your goals- whatever they may be – will become your reality. Become part of a group. Join forces with others moving in the same direction. Buddy-up. Talk about your successes and challenges. Be willing to offer and receive encouragement. The whole is more than the sum of it’s parts.

“The way is full of genuine sacrifice.
The thickets blocking your path are anything
that keeps you from that, any fear that you may be broken
into bits like a glass bottle.

This road demands courage and stamina, yet it’s full of
footprints!
Who are these companions?
They are rungs in your ladder. Use them!
With company you quicken your ascent.
You may be happy enough going along, but with others
you’ll get farther, and faster.

Someone who goes cheerfully by himself to the customs
house to pay his traveler’s tax will go even more
lightheartedly when friends are with him.

Every prophet sought out companions.
A wall standing alone is useless, but put three or four walls
together, and they’ll support a roof and keep grain dry
and safe.

When ink joins with a pen, then the blank paper can say
something.
Rushes and reeds must be woven to be useful as a mat. If
they weren’t interlaced; the wind would blow them away.